A Farmington Hills police officer who had been accused of sex crimes against a cadet was acquitted of all charges at the conclusion of a jury trial Sept. 15 in Oakland County Circuit Court.
Michael Rybinski, 32, of Wixom, had faced one count of third-degree criminal sexual conduct and three counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct for an alleged assault that reportedly happened outside of work on June 19, 2025. The Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office had alleged that an assault happened in the police cadet’s car after she agreed to give Rybinski a ride home. He was accused of groping, forcibly fondling and trying to kiss her despite her repeatedly telling him to stop.
But the jury didn’t buy it —-and returned with the not guilty verdict. The trial ran less than two days, including deliberations.
After charges were filed, Rybinski was put on administrative leave from his job with the Farmington Hills Police Department. Following the verdict, Police Chief John Piggott issued this statement to The Oakland Press:
“Following criminal charges filed against Mr. Rybinski for an incident that occurred while he was off duty and outside the jurisdiction of the City of Farmington Hills, he was bound over to circuit court and placed on unpaid leave from the police department.
Mr. Rybinski cooperated with the department’s internal investigation and maintained his innocence throughout the process. As criminal charges are allegations, he was presumed innocent.
On Sept. 15, 2026, an Oakland County jury found Mr. Rybinski not guilty of all charges. He may now seek reinstatement to his position as a police officer with the City of Farmington Hills in accordance with his rights under the collective bargaining agreement and the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards.
The City respects the judicial process, the jury’s decision, and the closure this verdict provides.”
Attorney Colin McLaughlin, who represented Rybinski along with attorney Amber Lee, issued this statement to The Oakland Press:
“While I appreciate the advocacy of the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office on behalf of victims, I believe the outcry about my client’s position as a police officer caused many issues with this case to be overlooked. We are eternally grateful to the jury for seeing through that initial perception and exonerating Mr. Rybinski. Mr. Rybinski has an impeccable record while on duty as an officer and during his previous military service. This proceeding has done immeasurable harm to his life and we hope this verdict is the first step towards the recovery of his reputation.”
McLaughlin said he had no information to report on Rybinski’s future plans.
Visiting Judge James Alexander presided over the trial.
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